Glipizide

Glipizide is a drug that is prescribed for diabetics in the class of drugs known as sulfonylurea. The drug will have the much desired effect of obstructing, to some extent, the potassium channels in the beta cells of the islets of langerhans. Effectively the actions produced by this drug will increase calcium which ultimately increases more insulin from the beta cells.

It was placed on the market in 1984. The pharmaceutical company Pfizer distributes the drug under the brand name Glucotrol in the United States. It is sold in doses of 5 and 10 milligrams. It is also sold under different generic names by other pharmaceutical companies world wide.

A Few Precautions

It is important that you let your doctor know if you have any of the following conditions

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Thyroid disease
• Type 1 diabetes;
• Any serious infection, disease, or injury.
• Will go to surgery imminently.

If any of these situations apply to you, the doctor may not prescribed glipizide. Alternatively the dosage may be altered and/or the doctor may insist on close monitoring while you’re being treated. Persons who are 65 years and older may also require modifications to the dosage amount.

It is not entirely known what effects glipizide may have on an unborn child. Subsequently if you are or may become pregnant inform your doctor; it is unlikely that you will be prescribed this medication.

Taking the Medication

Glipizide comes in tablets that will be administered orally. It is typically prescribed once a day, 30 minutes before the first meal of the day, preferably in the morning after breakfast. Ensure that you take the medication as indicated and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify anything you do not understand about the dosage requirements. Be sure not to take above or below the amount that is prescribed. Taking too much may lead to possible complications, while taking too little will cause the drug to be ineffective.

The drug regimen must be continued even if you are feeling better. If you stop unexpectedly this may disrupt the efficacy of treatment.

Side Effects

This medication may alter your blood sugar levels. Be wary of the symptoms associated with high and low blood sugar (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia) respectively, and ensure that in each situation you are able to manage the undesirable effects.

Your doctor will likely advise you what to do if you become hypoglycemic. It will be recommended that you check your blood sugar, consume or drink anything that contains sugar, for example, hard candy or fruit juice. Alternatively, you may need to get medical attention if the symptoms are not alleviated with normal measures.

Some effects of hypoglycemia may include

• Sweating
• Shakiness
• Numbness or strange sensations in the mouth area
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Clumsy or jerky movements
• Nervousness or irritability
• Sudden alterations in behaviour or mood
• Headache
• Weakness
• Pale skin
• Hunger

Storage

The medication should be stored in the original container, firmly sealed and in an area away from children. It should be kept at room temperature and free from extreme heat or cold. Dispose of any medication that has expired as it will no longer retain its useful properties.

Filed under: Uncategorized on October 8th, 2009